To date the budget DC pumps don't have the greatest track record for being reliable, whether it's the Diablo, Waveline, Speedwave or Jebao they're all the same as far I'm concerned. The good news is the main issues seem to relate the power supply which can be easily upgraded, a regulated power supply would likely be a step in the right direction. Also not running pumps at full power seems to be recommended.

The second gens from waveline appear to be a step in the right direction so hopefully the trend continues with other brands and old pumps can be retro fitted with new versions down the line if reliability issues continue.

Also IME skimmers with pumps mounted vertical are prone to start up issues, temporary lapses, and complete seizing. Air can get trapped in the impeller shaft housing too easily and water exchange in there won't be great either so dry start and over heating symptoms will be common.

So far I have not had any issues with mine. Starts up just fine and is running great once I got it to the right water level recommended. It did take some playing around with the pump control level & had to add a 90* elbow to the output to get it exactly were I wanted.

The power supply issue is a big thing but keeping it cool is the solution to longer life, they run very hot and that's not good for any type of electronics.

The other thing I don't like about this skimmer is the air valve is not adjustable which would be sweet. If your not getting good bubble action in the body it could be that the air tube has a slight kink in it.


Stay clear..... this Bear bites off limbs!!

If you could go back in time, would you still buy the same skimmer
Or would you go a different route ?
And if so what one would you have picked and why?
Thanks Grag

I would still make the same choice in skimmers as mine is working great.